Falling Back in Love... with American Eagle

My beloved American Eagle... oh, how I have missed you!

American Eagle is one of my favorite stores from back in the day. I worked there while in college... and maybe longer (kind of a blur now, hah). I owned so much of their clothing and accessories that entire outfits were AE and I could spot the brand everywhere. Just ask a girlfriend from my UF days, they'll vouch for me (that's you Dori, Lauren, Danielle, Alexis, Sara Beth, etc!)!

While I took a bit of a hiatus from the store in my late 20s, I'M BACK!

A few years ago the clothes seemed a little hoochie-ish (truth), but now there are so many adorable looks

that you'd be thrilled to be spotted in. Regardless of age.

I've been there twice in three days, first getting this striped tee. Then on Monday I picked up this awesome dress along with some gorgeous sparklies. I'm so back crazy in love.

soft drapey tee in light hot pink stripes

sale, $10 reg. $24.50 (almost ALL tees are currently $10!)

I've been looking for pops of color... here it is! (super light-weight and not too snug around my midsection!).

fiesta strapless dress

sale $24.50, reg. $39.50

This satiny find totally looks like a $150 dress from Anthropologie! Total steal.
Will be wearing this to everything from bridal showers to work meetings. Pair it with a cardigan or a blazer, a la Kristin Wiig in Bridesmaids (Thank you Budget Babe for the inspiration!).



I also picked up some jewelry from their impressive selection.
At my local store, jewelry is BOGO FREE! Online, it's BOGO 1/2 off.

I scored faux diamond hoop earrings with studs ($12.50); a long double key necklace ($15.50), and two awesome bracelets ($6.95 each on clearance). Only paid $22.45 for all four!
Unfortunately, I couldn't find most of it online so here's a pic of the new items...
the new dress is the background.

Here's the one bracelet I could find online...

chain bracelet in blue

sale $9.95 ($6.95 in store), reg. $15.50

The bracelets are amaze and a half when added with other bracelets and leather wraps.
See what I mean? And, I'm just getting started.

Bracelets: AE on the left and right, with my BaubleBar perfect leather wrap bracelet in the middle.

So tell me... have you checked out American Eagle lately?
What do you think?

How to: Wear a Fedora

I know, I know, the fedora seems like it should be reserved for the likes of Kate Bosworth, Lauren Conrad and Nicole Ritchie, but it really is a wearable look for pretty much anyone!

While I'm not typically a hat gal (I swear I have an abnormally large head brain), I love the fedora because  it's doesn't feel like I'm attacking people with it as I walk by (haha yes, picture it).

Don't get me wrong -- floppies rock and I will be showing you some great, affordable options soon enough -- however, a fedora is a great alternative for the ever day.

Plus, certainly anyone sitting behind you in a movie theatre or concert will appreciate!

If you're not sure it's for you, test it out with one under $25 so you're not breaking the bank if it doesn't get a lot of use. Here's a few I'm digging (and you can probably do even better during a sale!):

New York & Co., Ribbon Fedora, $16.95

Aldo, Phylicia, $20

Kohl's, Vintage Stone Straw Fedora, $16.80 (reg. $24)

OK, and now, some critical fedora-wearing advice:

Make sure it fits your head properly.

Go with one designed for a female or male, whichever gives the best fit (even kiddies!).
You want to pull it further down on your head; you don't want it to look too high above your head.
Also look for styles with a prominent crease.

Wear with a basic top, or try a floral pattern for spring.

And, most of all, have fun with it! It's a hat, after all.

What to Wear: Fancy Schmancy Wedding (& Hide the Arms!)

A Facebook friend, Sandy, recently inquired:

Q. post request! what to wear to a schmancy nighttime wedding in april. in florida. without showing off your not-so-tiny arms ;)

A. Glad you asked! Weddings season is just gearing up so all us gals need to start thinking about what to wear. Do you go the safe black dress route with some killer heels and jewelry, or do you mix it up? And, it's no longer necessary to do floor-length gowns, even for black tie, so find what suits you best.

As for arms, I am not a fan of trying to cover them up.
****Seek out flattering necklines, not-to-wide straps (avoid too-tight cap sleeves) and bold or smart, graphically-designed prints to draw the eye where you want!

****Bring a shawl to drape over your shoulders -- which is much more delicate
-- and cooler in the warm weather.

(ps: it's already 85 and humid in Florida; brace yourself, and your hair!).

Here's a few looks from Macy's that I'm loving:

Evan Picone, striped dress, $99.
(love well placed stripes... don't even notice the arms!)

BCBGeneration, ruffle maxi, $158.
 (gorgeous ruffles draw eye in, away from arms in this notice-me-purple! A favorite).

JSCollection, striped cocktail dress, $118.
(oh la la! Again, all about helpful stripes in this stunning black cocktail dress.)

Suzi Chin, silk empire waist dress, $158.
(if you insist on some sort of sleeve, adore this light-weight floaty look.
You do not want sleeves to look tight. Will only make arms appear larger).

BCBGeneration, striped, three-quarter sleeve, $198.
(ps: this look can be very flattering; seek out something similar with a darker color -- only the bride gets white or beige -- but avoid this dress if you're more apple-shaped.)

Maggy London, evening gown, $148.
(A classic gown with a super flattering, and forgiving, shape.
Navy offers a nice alternative to basic black and this will pair well with a light-weight shawl.).

MOST IMPORTANTLY.... HAVE FUN!!!!

Do Not Wear: Wide Leg Gone Wrong

Oh my gosh, what designer would make this for women??

With this post I'm starting a DO NOT WEAR feature where this gal will share with you items

that just because you see them -- and even if someone promotes them as the new "in" look ---

DO. NOT. WEAR.

My goodness, these are offensive.

Stacy London of TLC's "What Not to Wear" would have a field day.

Notice how even the tall skinny minnies wearing them look at least 20 lbs heavier in the hips and thighs?!
Bad news.

And, yes, they could be comfy but a cropped or capri super wide-leg?

Never. You want your wide leg pants as long as possible. Down to the floor, baby!
I'm not even including a link to where you can find these, except to tell you that they're $82.

Remember: Wide-leg pants CAN be super flattering. A few considerations:

Opt for a pair that skims the ground, and have them hemmed to look perfect with your wedges or heels.
They look best when you can get as much height as possible.
If you're bigger, avoid a super flare and opt for a nice straight or trouser leg so you look long and lean.

If you're petite, avoid flats.

Here, Kristina of Pretty Shiny Sparkly, a fashion and style blog I adore, shows you how to wear it...

Ahhh, much better! And, try a tucked-in shirt, too. Check out more of Kristina's site, too.

This is the truth. Promise.
Think of TAGG as your bff who's going to tell you like it is.

(and if you already have a pair, sorry!

Just take a sec to look in the mirror and decide if this is the most flattering version of you).

5 Must Haves for a Stylish Expecting Mama

Disclaimer: non-preggo readers: don't stop here... I swear the must haves from the girl you are about to meet are, crazy enough, MY must haves, too... and ladies: this mama is not expecting!

Meet Megan. She's another girl crush I have after getting to know her the past few months on twitter. She's a Florida gal with a sense of style as awesome as her personality (i.e. totally). I mean how can you not adore a woman who every day -- while pregnant! -- posts pics of herself in these fabulous, fashionable, creative outfits that usually include a pair of killer heels? I'm impressed!

Megan is the blogger of The Frugalista Diaries, which is totally on my google reader list so I can see her affordable outfits, fab fashion finds and a whole lot more. You can also find her on twitter at @meganfrugalista. Love that, like me, she didn't go out and buy a whole slew of maternity duds... she found versatile pieces that allow a little extra 'breathing room' for she and baby. And, since she was due earlier this week maybe this post will bring good baby wishes her way!

In her own words, here are Megan's 5 Must Haves for a Stylish Expecting Mama!
With my first pregnancy I assumed being fashionable while pregnant was going to be a big feat, so I whined and complained the whole nine months. This time, I made a special effort to prove that just because you're pregnant doesn't mean you can't look fabulous (and wear heels).

Here are my top 5 pieces that make expecting chic (on the cheap)!

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses are the perfect maternity piece, whether it's been hanging in your closet for ages or you just snagged it off the rack, it's flowing and hangs well on a growing bump. I spent most of this pregnancy in pre-pregnancy pieces that easily made the transition, and maxi dresses were my absolute favorite. Remember to skip the zippers and make elastic your friend, and don't be afraid to play with color and prints.

Wedges

Heels during pregnancy are not entirely impossible, but everyone is different, for me they're more comfortable than flats and I've worn them the entire time. However, not everyone wears heels everyday therefore bringing in the need for wedges. Wedges are the ideal heel for any heel or non-heel gal, they're more sturdy and tend to give more support while giving you a bit of height. Plus, not only do they go with anything from dresses to shorts, they're spot on trend this season. Target's collaboration with Dolce Vita brought us stylish and reasonable wedges under $30 that are an instant hit.
TAGG tip: love that Megan has mentioned my obsession wedges; these are my top 5 closet items right now!

Pair of good fitting maternity jeans/pants

I fought maternity jeans/pants until my 6 or 7 month due to the belief that maternity jeans aren't very flattering, and if they are, they're extremely pricey. Since I didn't want to drop $200 on a pair of jeans that would only last me through my last trimester I listened to a few of my reader's suggestions and checked out Old Navy maternity jeans. After snagging a pair of skinny jeans for $14 I never looked back. Remember under the belly is sometimes more comfortable than the full belly panel because it can grow with you.

Little Black Dress

Little black dresses can be the chicest most versatile piece in your closet, and if you’re going to splurge on one thing during your pregnancy it should be on just that. LBD’s can be easily taken from day to night, from casual to elegant. For a night on the town pair with a statement necklace and heels, or for a casual brunch throw on a utility jacket with embellished flats. Fabric should always be taken into account when snagging a little black dress, jersey is extremely versatile and is more breathable than silk and polyester, which us ‘baking’ ladies need.
TAGG tip: I lived in a black maxi dress (non maternity) from Nordstrom, which was glammed up or down via jewels, cardys, etc!

Accessories, accessories, accessories

Accessories are the best way to distract and/or play up your growing bump, whether you’re in the mood for a brilliant colored scarf or a fabulous pair of print shoes, it completes a look and makes carrying a bump look a whole lot better. If you’re looking to distract from your little bump think statement earrings, necklaces, scarves, and shoes that bring attention away from your middle. Whereas belts are the perfect fit if you want to accentuate your new curves.

Outfit: A Little Shoulder Cleavage + Fall Wardrobe Staple Renewed

Announcement: The winner of the new Who What Wear book giveaway from nearly 90 entries... drumroll, please! A huge congratulations to Allie of Wardrobe Oxygen! To all, thank you so much for entering and making my birthday blog goals come true! Look for another giveaway coming soon...

I'm not sure this constitutes as "cleavage" but since I don't have much of the real deal (sure you've noticed by now! ha), but lately I've been all about showing off one of my favorite body parts -- my shoulders and collarbone. Every single woman, regardless of size or body type, has a part they love. Determine yours and then find ways to highlight it, be it a pencil skirt to show your calves, a v-neck to show the real deal cleavage, or tanks to show your buff arms! 
(sorry for the sun shining right on my shoulder; hope you get the idea!)

Plus, this outfit is all about repurposing a fall wardrobe staple -- the skinny green cargos -- with a spring flair. If you have a pair, don't be shy about mixing them with bright blues, pinks and oranges. If you're more conservative, opt for a perfect weekend look of a white tank and fun flats.

photo credit: the hubs

pink short-sleeve sweater: h&m

cargo pants: mossimo, target

rose gold chain link bracelet: market in charleston, sc

gladiator wedges: madden girl via loehmann's
nail polish: opi's over the taupe

Closet Must: Dark Denim Jeans

Hi ladies! Happy Friday! Just a reminder that today's the last day to enter to win the latest fashion secrets from the ladies behind Who What Wear. Enter here (and also help make my birthday wishes come true... it's today!). Have a great one gals.


Forget the trends for a second. While I love to share with you the latest fashion trends and must haves to keep you in the know, there's one that's ALWAYS a "Do" in my book. It should be in every woman's closet.

DARK DENIM JEANS!

Gap, Perfect Bootcut Jeans (dark wash), $69.50

As the seasons pass, you'll never find something that's so valuable and versatile in your wardrobe. Find a pair that fit you perfectly, whether it's from Old Navy for $30 or Joe's for to $200 (though if you want designer, check Loehmann's, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, etc for discounted pairs).

TIPS: Avoid anything with faded spots near your thighs and tush, and be sure the back pockets are sized proportionately for you, and not too high or low. Otherwise, these little details add up to extra lbs and width to areas you do not want widened.

And, consider two pairs: one hemmed for your heels and another for your flats. Depending on the brand -- and your height -- look for the ankle length to save on tailoring fees...just don't get them too short. Keep in mind they might shrink up to about 1/2 inch after your first wash.

The pair above is totally on my hit list. I already have a perfect pair of skinnies (that you've seen many times; they're from Forever 21) and could use a great straight/boot cut pair. They're getting hemmed for my flats, and I'm purchasing the next time Gap has 40 percent off... in many stores, it's now every Wednesday! 

My latest glitzy and glamorous lusts!

Reminder: Just two more days to enter to win the most coveted (and helpful!) fashion book of 2011! Enter here... just takes a sec, and I'll be appreciative. Consider it your good deed for the day, which is pretty cool because you can potentially benefit from the kindness!

With my bday just a few days away, I feel compelled to share with you just a few gorgeous sparkly and shiny lovelies I've been lusting over the past few weeks (err, months). I'm sure there's dozens more... I must have drooled over the Nordstrom jewelry counters yesterday while shopping with my bb (best buddy), D. We had so much fun! What's on your accessories hit-list?

Michael Kors Rose Gold Watch, Neiman Marcus, $250.

I'm such a watch gal -- consider them practical and fashionable! -- and this rosey cutie needs a home in my collection.

Jordann Jewelry, Magnolia Pendant, Large, $160
Designed by a Palm Beach-based gal named Jordann, I've been eyeing this pendant for way too long. It's gorgeous in its simplicity. A statement maker you can wear every day. I love.

 

Tory Burch, Lucite Cuff in White, $45

Love the impact this will make wrapped around my wrist. There's also a black that's pretty fierce, too. Crazy great price because there are on ebay for $80+. If you like, go right to the source!

 

 

Allora Handmade, Rosette Pearl Necklace (comes in more colors), $39.

Have spotted this necklace on other bloggers and it's crazy adorable; throw on a white tee or simple dress, and this... fabulous. The hardest part is picking a color. I've been debating this or fuchsia.

 

Outfit: Black Jeans Require a little bit of Waterfront love

Happy Monday! Stay tuned for a giveaway coming your way this afternoon!


I'm a Downtown kind-of-gal. I love urban life. If I could have it my way, I'd walk outside my door every day to the best restaurants, shops, museums and galleries, you name it. But since I live in a pretty typical suburban neighborhood, I love venturing to Downtown West Palm Beach.... I guess Billy Joel's famous song, Uptown Girl," just doesn't apply to this chick!

It's an awesome Downtown... a mix between the modern -- with a destination called CityPlace that's packed with national brands -- combined the traditional and cool -- known as Clematis Street District with its independent restaurants, shops, etc. It's located on the waterfront, which was just redone. GOR-GEOUS!

I'm standing in front of the waterfront with the Intracoastal behind me (there used to be an old library blocking this view; a new one is just a few blocks west).The island of Palm Beach is across the way.

I wore this outfit for a happy hour for a non profit called The Foundation for Community Betterment. I'm on its Board because I so love the concept: we help the community one person at a time. Literally. We host events to help a 'recipient' who needs financial support. Since its inception 10 years ago, the national org has helped more than 120 people around the world. It's totally amazing and inspiring how quickly you can change someone's life when you get some people together.

Have a great week! Hope it's equally gorgeous where you are!

photographer credit: the hubs!

blouse: express

black jeans: gap

cardigan: gap

bracelets: set from h&m

ring: from macy's

watch: swatch

purple grommet-studded heels: kenneth cole reaction from macy's

Go Green for St. Patty's

A little green can go a long way... with your money and your ensemble! For St. Patrick's Day on Thursday, accessorize with any range of shades from this gorgeous hue; a lovely lepruchan said so! While I'm not normally a green gal (have red hair, can look like Christmas, hehe), I am totally coveting these green items that add a pop of St. Patty's Day color to my look.

Betsey Johnson, Lovely Leopard Stud Earrings, $30.

M.A.C., Swimming eye shadow, $14.50

Nordstrom, 'Whisper' Cashmere Wrap, $59.50

Essie, Pretty Edgy, $4.50

Asos, Lime Boyfriend Belt, $14.34

(ps: must.have.this!)

And, for an eye-catching look, try these...

Urban Outfitters, Shamrock Lens Wayfarer Glasses, $10.50